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Adult Protective Services (APS)

Overview

Protective services for adults (PSA) are provided to assist people 18 years or older whose physical or mental impairments prevent them from meeting their basic needs for food, clothing, shelter or medical care, and are unable to protect themselves from neglect, abuse, or dangerous situations. Every effort is made to keep individuals in the community or in the least restrictive environment. In response to the referral, a home visit is made and an assessment completed. In order to do that, the APS workers collaborate with other community agencies that could provide needed services.

What Can Adult Protective Services Offer?

Short-Term Involuntary Protective Service Orders (imminent risk of death or serious physical harm)

Admission to a psychiatric facility in conjunction with mental health professionals and/or the police to a person at risk of harm to himself or others

►Orders of Protection (assist in obtaining)►Guardianship: Petition the court when APS Supportive Services are not enough to ensure safety due to legal incompetence

Rights of an Individual Referred for Protective Services for Adults

Adults have the right to make their own decisions. They may choose to accept or refuse the services APS offers. In cases of extreme risk or diminished capacity to make decisions due to physical or mental disorders, APS may intervene against the person’s will to protect the individual.